Reviews & Ratings

2009 Franciscan Chardonnay "Napa Valley"

Winery: Franciscan

Vintage: 2009

Wine Name/Vineyard: "Napa Valley"

Wine Category: Chardonnay

Grape blend: 100% Chardonnay

Bottle size: 750 ml

Region: Napa Valley

State or country: CA

Price: $18

Cases produced: 58,987

KWG Score: 87.5 (based on 2 reviews)

Ken's Wine Rating: Very Good (88)

Review date: May 7, 2011

Wine Review: This pale yellow colored Chardonnay opens with a vanilla oak and pear like bouquet. On the palate, this wine is medium bodied, balanced and has a round mouthfeel. The flavor profile is ripe Bartlett pear with a myriad of other flavors like melon, banana, vanilla cream and oak. The finish is dry and subtle. I would pair this Chard with wild mushroom chicken ravioli smothered in a light cream sauce. Enjoy – Ken

Winemaker Notes: The wine is full bodied yet elegantly structured with delicate mineral, honey, citrus and stone fruit characters from the Carneros lots, and classic pear and apple notes from the South Napa vineyards. The aromas are seamless; a benefit of fermentation and aging in oak barrels, and the mouthfeel plush and round from the wild yeast. Pretty apple, honey, and lemon aromas, with hints of toasty oak, honeysuckle, and baked pear tart. Lively, crisp, and balanced. Layered with ripe apple and bright citrus flavors that are framed by rich vanilla and cream. Elegant and full, with a long vibrant finish of pear and honey.

Buy it: Use 1000 Corks to find stores that sell Franciscan 2009 Napa Valley Chardonnay.